Benicia Magazine March 2021 Issue

Preparing for Spring

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Celebrating our 16th Year

Benicia Editor-in-Chief

Mary Hand magazine

Art Director

Margaret Bowles

Contributors

Benicia

Patty Gavin Genevieve Hand Darrell Mcelvene Jeannine Mendoza,magazine Ed.D Gene Pedrotti Amy Stellato Maura Sullivan Christina Strawbridge

Administrative Assistant Solofo Evans

Website Specialist & Editorial Assistant Genevieve Hand

Photography Lisa Duncan

Social Media Specialist Bitsy Hall

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PUBLISHER

Mary Hand, Benicia Publishing Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Benicia Publishing, LLC. Copyright © 2021, all rights reserved.

Contents of Benicia Magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Benicia Magazine editorial or advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, and may not reflect the opinion of Benicia Magazine’s management or publisher. Benicia Magazine, Downtown Benicia, CA 94510. 707.980.1563, Beniciamagazine.com.

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March 2021

Contents

Features Women's History Month 16 Preparing for Spring 18

Around Town

Community

10

Stayin' Alive – business bounces back 10

Benicia Business

Nuts & Bolts 12

Art & Philanthropy SIB Live your Dream 14

26

Food & Drink

St. Patrick's Day with Maura 20 Amore Bistrot 22

Columns

From the Editor

Picket Fences – A Benicia Mystery

Dinner and a Movie Trends – Road Trip??

6 • Benicia Magazine

8 24 26 28

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Column

Welcome Spring

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With the onset of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, animals that hibernate are waking up from a long-period of deep sleep. They spent the winter hibernating to conserve energy while food was scarce. Animals that hibernate include bats, black bears, Arctic ground squirrels, and common poorwill birds. Many other species such as raccoons and skunks go into a state of torpor during the cold weather, which is a type of light hibernation. Most hibernators wake up during the month of March. Many of us will recognize ourselves in this group. Our torpor has lasted about a year with a few tiny little moments where we ran out briefly to see the sun.

March is the month when Spring arrives, it feels as if we are finally waking from a long sleep. Covid-19 vaccinations are starting to happen, and no matter where you are on that conveyor belt, you know you are eventually going to get to the front of the line. This is a slow painful awakening, but it is happening … and not a moment too soon, because we are hungry! We’re eager to dine out, shop, walk, eat, drink and enjoy ourselves. When the sun comes out, so do we. You can see it on First Street when the sidewalks are full and there’s no place to park. This is a good thing! Our shops and restaurants have been in crisis for months and it will take a long while before they are back to normal, so let’s give them all the support we can.

Along with hibernating animals, the earth is also waking up.

I know I’m not the only one who’s looking forward to working in their yard and imagining a gorgeous garden full of healthy flowers, plants and vegetables. I’m a hit and miss gardener with one green thumb and one pathetic shriveled up black thumb. I have great intentions and a very good eye but that weeding and watering thing … well, as I said, hit and miss.

Fortunately in this issue I have plenty of information to help gardeners of all levels create their dream garden.

And finally, March contains a holiday near and dear to my heart, St. Patrick’s Day. On March 17th I’ll be making my way to Cullen’s Tannery Irish Pub & Saloon for a taoscán of uisce beatha or a wee dram o’ the Irish.

Sláinte!

@beniciamagazine

Mary Hand Tweet, post or send your suggestions & ideas to: Editor@beniciamagazine.com Beniciamagazine.com 8 • Benicia Magazine

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Realtor® | DRE 02006363 707.386.4354 Tina@ShopBayAreaHomes.com Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 9

Around Town Community

STAYIN

Benicia busines “We learned new technologies, created online storefronts, retrained our staff, and doubled our marketing efforts in order to inform the community of our efforts.”

n

Amy Stellato

Many times during the last several months, I have stood on First Street, our beautiful little city perched on the waterfront, and could almost feel the collective breath being held. As co-owner of one of the businesses that lines this street, I too have felt the overwhelming uncertainty of the past year deeply—wavering at times between worry and hope, and sometimes finding myself with the muddled mixture of both. Although this is not the first time I’ve navigated a small business through a recession, this particular experience has been as new to me as for all of us—the economic impact being only part of the equation.

Small businesses like mine have always been important in establishing a town’s identity: they play a major role in what attracts people to a community, and they reflect the personality of the citizens. Throughout this past year, I have been reminded of this as I anxiously watched

10 • Benicia Magazine

Benicia’s local business landscape change.

While often mourning the loss of some of our favorite establishments, I was simultaneously reassured by the emergence of new ones and their fresh perspectives. Even now, looking out at our city after a year that has challenged everything important to us, I am overwhelmed with appreciation for this resilient sector and what it represents for us, as a community.

When my husband, David, and I first visited Benicia several years ago, we were happily surprised by the richly diverse and distinctive personality that the relatively small city had. Unexpectedly un-small-townish, Benicia’s beautiful convergence of historical significance, progressive thinking, gorgeous climate, art, industry, and playfulness has attracted a community that’s wide in its variety of people and the small businesses throughout. With its enduring legacy as a hub for creativity, Benicia still boasts a wealth of artists, with styles as varied as our

Around Town Community

N′ ALIVE

ss bounces back

citizens and represented in all their levels of mastery by many of our galleries, restaurants, shops, salons, florists, and creative spaces. Historic, yet surprisingly cosmopolitan, our downtown features a myriad of boutiques that sell everything from quality antiques to clothing from named designers; and businesses in the health & wellness field with approaches ranging from the traditional to somewhat unconventional.

And the restaurants... What city would be complete without its own unique menagerie of bars and eating establishments for people to gather together to let off some steam, listen to music, and enjoy each other’s company?

This hard-hit sector of Benicia’s small business community was perhaps the most missed by many of us during this pandemic. From beer gardens to contemporary dining, this town loves its variety of cuisine and the amazing people who bring it to us.

Without a doubt, throughout this challenging year, the creativity, individualism, and dedication of our small business sector has shone.

Massive amounts of ingenuity became a requirement to operate under pressure.

No longer focused on growth, most of us concentrated instead on merely maintaining our survival. We looked for new ways to do business, and as we shifted gears, it often felt like we were developing brand-new businesses onthe-fly. We learned new technologies, created online storefronts, retrained our staff, and doubled our marketing efforts in order to inform the community of our efforts. Many of us did these things with fewer people, supplies, and general resources.

And we drew on our immense creativity—a trait that Benicia is known for. Businesses hosted Facebook Live events and literal window shopping for their customers when doing an online

storefront wasn’t an option for them.

Others figured out ways in which to offer their services to people at home, utilizing Zoom and other platforms, and still others creatively utilized outdoor space and offered cross-promotions in order to support themselves and others.

Many businesses offered free home delivery of their products—oftentimes recruiting their own friends and family members willing to go the extra lengths to sanitize their cars in order to offer safe deliveries.

These impressive displays of persistence, ingenuity, and optimism would not have been enough, however, if it had not been for Benicia’s community and its spirit of generosity and social consciousness—which included supporting our small businesses, while still being responsible with our collective health.

Many people continued paying membership fees to businesses that were temporarily closed, bought gift certificates to be used when things reopened, paid for haircuts that they didn’t get, shopped whenever it was safe to do so, and ordered from local restaurants as often as they were able. Signs reminding us that “We’re All in This Together” popped up everywhere. A true solidarity emerged, and during a time that offered little else in the way of hope, it helped to provide us all with a gentle assurance of Benicia’s continued vibrancy.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 11

Around Town Business

n

“Our downtown boasts a rich historical past with authentic architecture that artificial malls can only dream of (and poorly reproduce).”

12 • Benicia Magazine

Gene Pedrotti

Growing up across the Straits in Crockett (pop. 3300), I marveled at the strong sense of civic pride in Sugar City. Residents — Crockettiles, we called ourselves — could belong to three, four, five or more organizations, making the town rich with activity and fraternity. Those of us born in that era were lucky; we got to witness the last hurrah of the downtown, the heydays of the ‘50s and ‘60s.

But change came suddenly. I started working summers in 1970 — this is my 50th year in hardware — when, overnight, residents started racing out of town to shop the new El Portal Plaza in San Pablo, the El Cerrito Plaza, and the infamous Larwin Plaza in Vallejo (now Vallejo Plaza). Downtown Crockett instantly got quiet and as business folks retired, they simply closed shop.

Returning from Cal in 1980 to step into my family’s hardware store, I was very unsettled. To combat the decline, we formed the Crockett of Commerce; I served as its charter president, organizing, staging activities and events, and, alongside the rest of the Commerce members, promoting the town as best I could. But the die was cast. It broke my heart to leave Crockett. We took over Dan’s Ace Hardware on Valentine’s Day 1992 and thus preserved the family legacy, ready to celebrate our Centennial next year.

Walking downtown Benicia during the pandemic is reminiscent of the Crockett I left behind. Businesses are closed, some are boarded, the streets can be terribly quiet. It may seem a bit depressing now, but have faith. Of this, I am confident: Benicia will not suffer Crockett’s destiny! With a strong demographic, a rich historical past, and a perennially active group of civic leaders who embrace and promote the town’s tourist appeal, Benicia has a great foundation.

However, there are steps we can take now to ensure a speedy recovery.

Rebuild, Rebrand and Remind

It is estimated that one quarter of all shopping malls in the United States will close within five years. The shopping void left by their vacancy will create tremendous opportunities in the retail marketplace.

Observant and creative entrepreneurs will be looking to test their concepts and ideas on the public. And upon opening shop, they will need not only space, but a welcoming audience. Benicia must be ready to reach out and grab these enterprising innovators. This is essential to Rebuild Benicia.

At the same time as mall and chain stores shutter, there will be a huge gap of venues for consumers to patronize. With fewer shopping choices to lure consumers, shoppers will be desperately looking for entertaining and authentic alternatives. Our downtown boasts a rich historical past with authentic architecture that artificial malls can only dream of (and poorly reproduce). Now is the time to reach out and Remind the Bay Area to visit and enjoy a day on the Bay! Civic leaders, the Chamber, and local business must cooperate and Rebrand Benicia; that is, organize, advertise and market the town. Whether to welcome pioneering innovators or the exploring consumer— Benicia must reach out to both. We must accommodate those looking to open shop and those looking to patronize shops that are open.

This is where you can help! As the pandemic wanes and as you plan family gatherings, encourage friends & family to visit you in Benicia! Walk First Street, visit the parks, wine and dine in the downtown. Treat newcomers to Benicia’s beauty, its history, and its authenticity. By hosting your activities in Benicia, your family and guests will share their experience with more friends on social media and by word-of-mouth. With Benicia in such close proximity to much of the East Bay, you will help Remind Bay Area residents to experience the beauty, activity and diversity of the town we love.

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

Around Town Philanthropy

Live Your Dream

“Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award program is a unique education-related grant for women who provide the primary financial support to their families.”

14 • Benicia Magazine

n

Patty Gavin

No doubt, we are living in unparalleled times, and statistics show that women have been disproportionately hit by the pandemic, especially those with children.

According to the National Women's Health Network (NWHN), "COVID kills more men, but the social and economic consequences of the pandemic are landing hardest on women." Women's careers span the world of business, science, education, politics, the arts, etc., but the pandemic has hit the service industries the hardest. Since so many women work in service industries such as restaurants, day care centers, and the beauty and hospitality industries, they have suffered "60% of pandemic related job losses." Then, there are the frontline healthcare workers, the majority of them women, who face a high risk of infection and of bringing it home. Scores of women have left the workforce, some because they lost their job, and others because they had no daycare options available for their children.

Since women are more likely to be the caregivers, they disproportionately have been the ones to stay home overseeing their children's remote learning. If they are working from home, they wear many hats.

And then there is the task of maintaining the emotional and mental health of their children, as well as their own. It cannot be disputed that juggling it all can be a challenge… a recipe for stress.

Soroptimist International of Benicia, a non-profit volunteer organization that serves women and girls, is aware that their help is needed now, more than ever. At Christmastime, the club provided 47 Holiday Giving boxes with over 1200 pounds of food, along with gift cards, to be delivered locally. In addition, food, toys, and gifts were provided to the four previous Soroptimist Live Your Dream award recipients and their children. During the summer, in partnership with the Solano Community Foundation, members donated $8200 to the "Snack Pack Project," providing meals for 100+

students per day, 7 days a week. Mask making was a project earlier in the pandemic, in which members sewed 350 masks to be distributed to seniors, care facilities, and others in need.

In keeping with their mission of providing women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment, Soroptimist of Benicia recently awarded two young women with a Live Your Dream Award.

Due to budget constraints, two awards were given this year as opposed to last year's four. Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award program is a unique education-related grant for women who provide the primary financial support to their families.

The Live Your Dream Award gives women the resources and support they need to improve their education, skills, and employment prospects; to achieve their dreams. The program begins at the local Soroptimist club level where recipients can then become eligible for region-level awards. Region award recipients go on to compete at the international level. Since the Live Your Dream Award program began in 1972, about $30 million in education grants have been disbursed to assist tens of thousands of women to achieve their dreams of a better life for themselves and their families.

Over half of Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award recipients are survivors of domestic violence, sex trafficking, or sexual assault. Nearly all of the women and families served over the years by the Live Your Dream Award have overcome enormous obstacles. Award recipients may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education.

Soroptimist International of Benicia prides itself in the daily contributions to individual and community well-being. Through grants, scholarships, mentorship, education, and food and shelter, the club strives to change the narrative for women and girls. Now, more than ever, in these unprecedented times, the work to educate, empower, and enable opportunities for women and girls is crucial.

Please visit our website, soroptimistofbenicia.org to see the Winter 2020 Impact Report that gives details of the projects and programs of the organization. Tax deductible donations are accepted on the website, or mail to: Soroptimist International of Benicia, PO Box 282, Benicia, CA. 94510

JOIN OUR AWARD-WINNING SCHOOLS BUSD New Student Enrollment Enrollment for incoming Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten and new elementary & secondary school students to BUSD opens in February.

Your child must turn five years old on or before September 1, 2021, to enroll in Kindergarten.

BUSD is also offering Transitional Kindergarten again this year for all Benicia students who turn five years old between September 2nd and December 2nd, 2021. Enrollment for this program is completed at each of our Elementary Schools starting the month of February Enrollment information is on the BUSD website: beniciaunified.org/parents/new-student-enrollment/

Please call your school of residency in order to follow the proper enrollment set by the schools.

Open Enrollment for all Elementary students desiring to attend a school outside of their school of residence will be held the month of March.

Benicia Unified School District 350 East K Street, Benicia, CA 707.747.8300 • www.beniciaunified.org

BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

Feature

National Women's History Month

"'...we can draw pride, comfort,

courage, and long

range vision'

from these women of history."

16 • Benicia Magazine

n

Patty Gavin

Observed in the United States in the month of March since 1987, National Women's History Month grew out of a 1978 weeklong celebration of women's contributions to history, culture, and society. It happened in Sonoma County, California, as the local school district organized presentations, a "Real Woman" essay contest, and a parade in downtown Santa Rosa. The idea caught on and in 1980, President Carter issued a presidential proclamation

declaring the week of March 8 as Women's History Week. A resolution by the U.S. Congress establishing a national celebration followed. Then, in 1987 the National Women's History Project (recently renamed the National Women's History Alliance, or NWHA) asked Congress to expand the event to the entire month of March, and they were successful. The idea behind this month long celebration is to reflect on the often overlooked contributions of women to

“We did not feel prepared to be the heirs of such a terrifying hour.

But within it we found the power to author a new chapter, To offer hope and laughter to ourselves.”

Amanda Gorman

United States History. There is a wealth of women's history milestones that date from the very beginning of our nation's founding.

The theme chosen by the NWHA for the 2021 National Women's History month is "Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be Silenced." Since many women's suffrage centennial celebrations were cancelled or postponed last year because of the pandemic, the NWHA thought that extending the theme into 2021 would be appropriate. When considering how the brave women who worked for women's right to vote carried on in the wake of WWI and during the flu pandemic, we can learn quite a bit from their behavior. There is, of course, reason to be discouraged during this drawn out current pandemic we are experiencing, but like those suffragettes, we must and we will adapt and persevere.

While there is much to celebrate about women's suffrage and the outstanding women who toiled endlessly to win the vote, there is an abundance of other significant contributions by diverse women in U.S. history, culture, and society. It would take much more than the limited space in this magazine to list them and their accomplishments.

To be sure, women's history is full of

pioneers in women's rights, human rights, science, politics, sports, literature, the arts, business, etc. There are the well known figures in women's history, such as Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Stanton, Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Rosa Parks, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, to name a few. Then there are those whose contributions have been overlooked over the years, but more recently brought to light. Who knew, for instance, of the contributions of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, and Mary Jackson, three African American women mathematicians who worked at male dominated NASA in the ‘60s? The film “Hidden Figures” (2016), based on the book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly, tells the story of their invaluable contributions to the space program.

Other firsts for women are milestones not to be forgotten: Edith Wharton, the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize, 1921, Frances Perkins, the first female member of a Presidential Cabinet in 1933, Shirley Chisholm, the first black woman elected to U.S. Congress in 1968, Katherine Graham, the first female to become a Fortune 500 CEO in 1972, Janet Guthrie, the first woman to drive in the Indy 500 in 1977, Sandra Day O'Conner, the first woman on the Supreme court in 1981,

Aretha Franklin, the first woman elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, Jeannie Marie Leavitt, first female U.S. Air Force fighter pilot in 1993, Kathryn Bigelow, the first woman to win an Oscar for Best Director in 2010, Amanda Gorman, first person to be named National Youth Poet Laureate in 2017, and Kamala Harris, the first woman, first Black, and first South-Asian vice president in U.S. history. These are just some of the remarkable trailblazing women who have made history. In the words of American Historian Dr. Gerda Lerner, "we can draw pride, comfort, courage, and long range vision" from these women of history.

When President Carter, back in 1980, issued that presidential proclamation for Women's History to be celebrated, he noted "From the first settlers who came to our shores, from the first American Indian families who befriended them, men and women have worked together to build this Nation. Too often, the women were unsung and sometimes their contributions went unnoticed. But the achievements, leadership, courage, strength, and love of the women who built America was as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well."

Our history is our strength...and...the women are still coming...

BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

Feature Advice From Local Experts n

Preparing for Spring 18 • Benicia Magazine

Genevieve Hand

The Bradford pears have bloomed, smacking us in the nose with their (not so wonderful, to many) pungent aroma, and reminding us that spring is on its way. The days are getting steadily longer, and it won’t be long before it’s time to plant that garden you’ve been dreaming of. With that in mind, we spoke with a few experts on what all you should be doing in your yard now to prepare for spring.

Joy Alberts is a local Master Gardener and owner of Joyous Spaces, once a garden boutique with a downtown storefront, and now a landscape design company.

She reports that it is key to get on top of weeds this time of year.

The reason for this being that the ground is still moist from what little rainy season we have, making it easier to remove roots from the soil than, say, if you were to wait until sun has baked our clay-heavy soil compact. Start this process early and stay on top of it throughout the season.

Beyond weeding, this time of year is also key for doing general clean up and maintenance on the yard. Remove excess leaves, clean beds, and take the opportunity to do some soil maintenance. For this, Joy recommends Harmony Organics, a local company specializing in organic soil, soil amendments, and fertilizers.

Harmony Organics utilizes a proprietary microorganism and the KISS philosophy (Keep It Simple, Stupid) to make back-to-basics products that are trusted by the likes of Avant Garden, The Cellar, and the Diablo Valley College and Solano Community College campuses (the minds behind Harmony Organics also hope to engage with the local school system in an educational capacity in the future).

Why is the type of soil you use so important? The soil you use now can affect your yard for years to come. Using quality, organic materials in your soil will help replenish vital nutrients that keep your plants healthy and happy, and it will also kick start your soil into maintaining its own healthy equilibrium into the future.

Recommendations for Benicia soil are Harmony Organics’ Growers Premium Soil or Mo-Betta Soil Mix. You’ll know you’re in good shape for planting when you have 18-24 inches of fluffy soil to work with.

Another important part of preparing the yard for spring is pruning and removing debris. Summer blooming shrubs should be on your pruning list, as should any trees on your property. If you have any dead plants or dead or problematic trees, it’s a good idea to remove those ahead of spring, especially as the fire season comes quickly on spring’s heels these days. For assistance in all things tree-related, who better to turn to than Sexy Trees?

Sexy Trees is a company that truly is passionate about trees. The owner, Alex Llamas, gave us some signs of risk to look for while preparing your yard for spring.

Any trees with fungus growing on them in the rainy season, that show cracks along the limbs, or that have branches hanging over the house are ones that you should have assessed. In addition, if you have trees on your property that have cables installed in them, these should be inspected annually, ideally by or with the assistance of whoever initially installed it. Take the time now to make sure the trees on your property are up to fire code.

Luckily, Sexy Trees handles everything from risk assessment, to pruning, to tree removal.

Another bit of advice from Alex relates to yard health. He recommends that readers who plan to hire a yard work service this spring ensure the service in question regularly sanitizes their equipment. Why? Think of a lawnmower like a shopping cart at the grocery store. One person uses it and leaves whatever germs are on their hands behind on the handle. Then another person uses it, picking up those same germs. In the same way, a lawnmower or other yard equipment can pick up pathogens from one yard and spread them to another, infecting and potentially

killing certain plant and tree species. Alex says this is becoming particularly relevant these days as climate change stresses plants and trees, making them more susceptible to pathogens. Because of this, it is recommended to also take this time to sanitize your own yard tools in preparation for spring. It’s worth noting that some soils can also harbor pathogens, so it’s a good idea to ask your soil provider if their product has been sterilized.

Once you’ve taken care of the cleaning, amending, and pruning, it’s time to tend to planning and planting.

Joy recommends choosing native plants that will best weather the hot, dry summers here.

Considering our extended fire seasons, choosing plants that hold water, like succulents, and leaving space between your garden and your home can help you build a natural fire break. Other general tips include restricting watering times to early morning or late evening, mulching your beds to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, dividing perennials, and deadheading flowering plants to encourage new growth. One tip she says novices and experienced gardeners alike sometimes get wrong is picking the right location for your plants. Make sure your sun-loving plants are planted in a spot that actually gets a lot of sun, and that your shade-loving plants go in a majority shaded area. Acid soil-loving plants should be planted around a redwood tree. Planning your garden around the particular conditions of your yard, or cultivating your yard to support the garden you want, will help ensure success. For those whose gardening includes potted plants, now is a great time to up-pot root-bound plants, flush with rainwater to dislodge salts, and give them fresh soil.

Joy’s final recommendation is to simply get out and be present in your garden: “Gardens have so much to teach you. You’ll come away feeling more connected with the earth and with yourself.”

“The soil you use now can

affect your yard for years to come.”

For those whose gardening includes potted plants, now is a great time to up-pot root-bound plants, flush with rainwater to dislodge salts, and give them fresh soil. Joy’s final recommendation is to simply get out and be present in your garden: “Gardens have so much to teach you. You’ll come away feeling more connected with the earth and with yourself.”

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

Around Town Food & Drink

n

Maura Sullivan

It’s Wednesday St. Patrick's Day. That zoom call is extra long and frankly we all could use a lovely pick me up in our footy pajamas. Yes they make them for adults now and if you haven't caught on… are you really living your best life?

We all know about green beer, corn beef & cabbage with a classic tall Guinness, but what about the beverage to go with the most important meal of the day? The classic Irish Coffee.

I’ve revamped this classic recipe. If you know me, put the whip cream can down!

Let’s start with the basic ingredients. Coffee, whiskey and cream.

When it comes to coffee don’t just reach for any coffee pod. Search for coffee that expresses some fruit notes. Medium roast will work great for this.

If you like to live on the dark side, a nice espresso dark roast will do the trick. Whiskey, Jameson of course. I prefer to stick with the Irish classics but recently discovered our Canadian friends make a fantastic Whiskey. Always has a little spice with some maple notes. Who says the Irish don’t reside in Canada?

Cream, I mean it, put that can down! Your hard work will pay off. I promise! Heavy whipping cream can be found at any grocery store. If you would like a little sweetness, a spoonful of powder sugar added to the cream will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Enjoy responsibly after your zoom meeting.

— Maura 20 • Benicia Magazine

Now for the recipe 1. Get your favorite Mug. A highball glass if you’re feeling fancy Pour in your coffee. Would suggest depending on your vessel, fill half way.

For strong results a ¼ filled.

2. Don’t add your whiskey right away if you want to taste it.

Let the coffee cool to about 100º before adding 1 ½ ounce of your choice of whiskey 3. Cream, here’s the trick to give you the fluff. Pour the cream into a mason jar.

Add 1 tbsp of powdered sugar to the cream.

1 tsp of vanilla extract.

Add two large ice cubes.

Close the lid tightly and shake.

We want the consistency of froth. Not all the way whip cream but a little under so the cream will mingle and float on the top of our coffee.

4. Once your cream is half way whipped, slowly spoon over the top of your morning wakeup call.

This recipe is also great for iced coffee.

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Around Town Food & Drink

A welcome taste of Italy

Amore Bistrot

in downtown Benicia “Life will only change when you become more committed to your dreams than you are to your comfort zone.”

— Billy Cox

22 • Benicia Magazine

n

Jeannine Mendoza, Ed.D

Now that signs of spring, like budding flowers, new grass, and flowering trees, are brightening our landscape and winter is but a memory, it is time to try something fresh and different. There is a new Italian bistrot (the Italian word for “bistro”) and Italian market in town that really fills the bill. Husband and wife, Massimo Biatta and Sonia Giovanazzi, and their two teenage sons, Lorenzo and Giacomo, decided to transform their lives in Milan by moving to Benicia, and opening a bistrot/coffee shop/market here, on D Street. Their concept store, Amore Bistrot, is located on the ground floor of the Inn at Benicia Bay, owned by longtime Benicians, and friends and partners of the Biattas, Dennis and Tracee Varni. In 2015, Massimo and Sonia spent their summer holiday with Dennis and Tracee in Benicia and fell in love with our picturesque waterside town and the warmth of our community.

They arrived here from Milan on the last day of February, 2020, just ahead of the pandemic that shuttered dining establishments and travel, nationwide.

Like all of us, Massimo, Sonia and their sons were unprepared for the lifestyle changes, health risks, and business shutdowns that occurred in March 2020, but sometimes you just have to play the cards that you are dealt. After 9 months of renovation and permitting and delays and more waiting, Amore Bistrot was able to open and offer real Italian food to-go, and its charming market offers the same imported Italian wines, Felicetti pasta, Caputo semolina and pasta flour, olive oil, Mulino Bianco treats and Italian roasted coffee beans served

at their bistrot. Beautiful gift baskets representing the various areas of Italy are also available and very popular.

Even though Massimo’s vision for his bistrot has been modified due to pandemic regulations, his intention of serving food that you would enjoy at a friend’s home is still very much alive.

According to Massimo, a bistrot is a small or unpretentious bar or tavern that serves food and alcoholic beverages.

Amore Bistrot, with its full liquor license, was intended to be a place for patrons to come and enjoy Italian comfort food and relax after a long day with drinks, aperitivos, to whet their appetite, and well made fare and finger food that reflects the seasonal local produce available on a given day. Truly an Italian experience.

The menu changes frequently according to the gastronomical whim of Massimo, the chef.

Currently, Amore Bistrot is open every day from 9-2. Once indoor dining

is allowed again, the owners wish to extend their hours; but for the time being, breakfast, lunch and takeout will have to suffice. The breakfast offerings include espresso and other coffee drinks made from their blend of select coffee beans roasted in Italy, and shipped here.

Specialties include cornetti, an Italian version of a croissant. It is a scrumptious, flaky pastry that can be enjoyed with assorted imported European jams.

Choices also include bomboletti, a cream filled, or Nutella filled donut creation typical of Emilia Romagna, and currently on weekends, rose di’ mele, a delicious pastry with fresh apple and shaped like a rose.

My personal favorite is Cannoli Siciliani, made with Italian ricotta cheese.

The unbelievably yummy cream filling has Guittard chocolate chips mixed in, and chopped pistachios, typical of Sicily, embedded on one end of the cannoli.

On the other end of the cannoli are Amarena di Vignola, hand-picked black cherries that have been gently preserved in a delectable syrup. American style maraschino cherries pale in comparison.

Paired with a hot cup of Italian coffee, the Cannoli Siciliani are made to order, and one of the best things on the menu.

Lunch and takeout items are available and include gnocchi in a variety of daily sauces, including an amazing Gorgonzola cream sauce, two types of lasagna, one with a bolognese meat sauce and the other with a pesto and béchamel sauce, and green beans, an original recipe from Genoa. Also available is Scottish smoked salmon with mozzarella and vegetables. An Italian charcuterie assortment of sliced meats are available as well as an assortment of authentic Italian cheeses like burrata, mozzarella ovoline, and Asiago and fontina. Freshly made salads with innovative toppings are also available.

Family meal-sized trays of lasagna and other Italian specialties are perfect for your next dinner or gathering, and are sure to please.

We locals are lucky that the Biatta family decided to settle here in our city, and share their exciting and tantalizing Italian culture and cuisine with us. We anticipate the day that Amore Bistrot can be more open to share the Italian experience with us, not just their food. For now, great, wholesome Italian comfort food will have to hold us over. Milan’s loss is certainly Benicia’s gain!

BeniciaMagazine.com • 23

Column A (Soap Opera) mystery story unfolds each month There will be clues as the . ies ser ry ste my ia nic to “Picket Fences.”

Join us for a Be ing conclusion. Welcome rify ter d an d cte pe ex un leading to an

s e c n e F t e Pick Previously in Picket Fences …

Angela’s run-in with Connie, an unwelcome figure from her past, shook her. After she reluctantly revealed part of that past to her husband, Bruce, he stormed off in disbelief. We rejoin the story the following day, with Angela distracted at work. n

Darrell Mcelvane

As the sun sets on the beautiful bayside town of Benicia, a cool evening breeze signals to its residents that the workday is over. Closing her office for the day, Angela heads home. She gets a text message through her car’s speakers from Payton, “Mom, I just want to let you know I won’t be home for dinner, I’m studying with a classmate. I love you.” As Angela pulls into the driveway, she notices Bruce’s truck. A combination of relief and anxiety swirl in her stomach as she wonders what she is coming home to. Walking through the doorway, she is surprised by the sound of Bruce’s favorite blues album. An Original '67 LIGHTNIN' HOPKINS Something Blue she got him for his birthday.

The aroma of his legendary steak that he thinks he cooks so well leads her into the kitchen, where she finds him in his jeans and a white T-shirt. “Hi,” Angela says softly, “I’m glad you’re home.” Throwing the towel over his shoulder and turning toward her, he says, “I am too, and I love you, it just hurts that you didn’t trust me.”

“I’m sorry, I just didn’t want to involve you, or Payton,” Angela says, looking down at the floor.

“You and me… we are a team Angela you cannot put us in harm’s way and not tell or give me a chance to protect you… to protect us,” Bruce responds, taking her hand and pulling her in close for a passionate kiss. Angela lets him take her into his arms, “no more lies, promise me.”

Bruce says “I Promise …. I promise” Angela says

24 • Benicia Magazine

knowing this is a promise she may not be able keep. The couple, enjoying each other for this moment, forget about the steak grilling on the stove top and lose themselves in their love for each other.

Payton pulls into the East N Street Trailer Park and heads to trailer slot 30, parking his car across from the trailer along the retaining wall. He gets to the front door and sees it is ajar. Pausing for just a second, he walks into the trailer, turning to survey its outdated furnishings. “Hello?” Payton says. Hearing a faint sound behind him, Payton turns to look, and there stands Xavier Leavenworth with a box of cupcakes from One House Bakery. “You came,” Xavier says, smiling at Payton. “Did you think I wouldn’t?,” Payton says, looking at the box of cupcakes. “I wanted to celebrate your birthday,” Xavier says. “My birthday is next week …you aren’t coming to my party?”

Payton asks, knowing the answer. “Well, you see …I don’t think I can come —” Xavier stops short as a headlight casts its glow through the window. “No one comes down this far,” Xavier says, squinting through the blinds. “They’re coming this way,” Payton responds. “Quick, get in the closet,” Xavier says. Clutching a cupcake, Payton squeezes into the tiny space, not daring to breathe. Unsure of what’s going on outside, all he knows is nothing good will come from being discovered here.

To be continued…

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Column Dinner and a Movie

The seventh in a series of at home food and movie pairings.

The Union Hotel Restaurant & Bar & Ghost n

Cinema Cat & Gourmet Gracie

Built in 1852, the Union Hotel is a living reminder of Benicia’s history as a way station during the Gold Rush. Well known for paranormal phenomena and the legends of ghosts, the hotel is frequently visited by enthusiasts looking for a glimpse of “Crying Mary” — a former “lady of the evening” who is still mourning the loss of one of her customers.

The restaurant is a hub of activity, complete with a beautiful side patio and plenty of outdoor sidewalk dining. The elegant bar inside is a charming step back into the past. Gabriel Oviedo, “Gabby,” is well known to Benicia locals and has been the restaurant owner and chef for more than 18 years. Friendly and accommodating, Gabby makes a mean martini and provides fresh and creative selections. Of French, Spanish, and Italian heritage, Gabby was born in Mexico. His menu is a reflection of styles from multiple regions. Each dish has a unique twist — Fettuccini with filet mignon in brandy cream sauce, Lamb Chops in citrus olive oil or the fresh grilled Halibut. Homemade pasta and bread. Don’t miss the very popular Italian style crispy pizzas. Desserts? Oh, yeah!

The website says, “you are where you eat,” and this is a great choice, whether taking out to dine at home or enjoying the ambience on site. What’s your pleasure? You’re likely to find it here!

Call for takeout and/or dining-in options.

The Union Hotel Restaurant & Bar

401 First Street Benicia, CA 94510 | www.unionhotelrestaurant.net 707.746.7847 or 925.351.4489 26 • Benicia Magazine

Ghost In honor of the Union Hotel’s etheric guests, our 2 Minute Movie Review this month is of Ghost, 1990; starring Demi Moore, Patrick Swayze (when men’s hair was a real thing), and Whoopi Goldberg (before she got all savvy and View-y).

Thirty years does make a difference, but this murder mystery, comedy/drama, love story, ghost story holds up pretty well.

We get to see Demi at her most appealing, Patrick at his most earnest, buffed up and shiny, and Whoopi when she was her funniest (Oscar — Best Supporting Actress).

It’s not a spoiler to tell you that Patrick’s character, Sam Wheat, is murdered early in the film, but his spirit stays on to protect the love of his life, Molly (Demi). The fun is layered in when Sam enlists the help of sketchy psychic, Oda Mae Brown, played by Whoopi with such a kick and a twist as to be the best part of the movie.

“Well known for paranormal phenomena and the legends of ghosts” Well, except, there is that scene. You remember: Demi and Patrick at the pottery wheel. The Righteous Brothers. Oh! My love! My darling! I hunger for your touch! Oh my goodness gracious!

Their love story carries us through the turns and curves, the betrayal by one and the redemption of another, all the way to the yearning, mystical end. You will love seeing it again.

PG-13; 2 hours 7 minutes Directed by Jerry Zucker; available on Amazon Prime.

8 out of 10 Whiskers @ www.cinemacat-tdp.blogspot.com

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

Column Trends

The long and winding road...

n

Christina Strawbridge

Heading South on HWY 101 from the Bay Area, the route, also known as El Camino Real (The Royal Road), has become very familiar to me over the last 25 years. The famous road that once linked the Spanish missions, pueblos and presidios, and connected the states of California, Portland and Washington has been transformed through "progress" and now serves the appetite of the traveler.

The changes have been subtle as development has taken over in many of the sleepy towns that made up the historic route. The old motels, service stations, fruit stands and family rest stops and have been replaced by outlet malls, large apartment complexes and fast food establishments. The once golden hills that turn brilliant green in the winter have been planted

28 • Benicia Magazine

with hundreds of thousands of grape vines. This change has given the Central Coast region significant presence in the wine industry, producing both intriguing and up and coming wineries.

For many years, our retreat has been Pismo Beach. It takes about 3 and half hours to get there from Benicia. Time enough to unwind once you have made it through San Jose traffic. The trip goes by quickly, as long as you have satellite radio and a smartphone to stay connected. We once owned a 2nd home in Pismo; actually many different homes that were part of our "fixer upper-flip or flop" phase in life. The attraction to Pismo was that it seemed to be the last of authentic California beach towns. With its long stretches of endless beach, romantic sunsets, boardwalk and, of course, the world famous clam chowder what's not to love?

It was bound to happen....change! In the last few years empty downtown lots on the ocean have been developed into two first class beach resorts. The rustic boardwalk and parking lot have been transformed into a promenade with an electronic Pismo Beach sign that changes colors starting at dusk, a playground with a whale for kids to climb and a slide that takes you from the promenade to the sand in a matter of seconds. Many of the classic restaurants like Giuseppe's, Rosa's and the Sea Venture have thankfully survived, while other small businesses have been pushed out for more lucrative rents.

The other part of the attraction is anonymity. We really don't know anyone in the town except the frozen yogurt store owner and maybe the waiter that we are on a first name basis with. Beach fashion is no more than sweats and sneakers. Comfort and function are key.

People tend to look at you funny if you are "overdressed."

As we pass San Luis Obispo and the road takes the turn to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean is there to greet us, rain or shine. It is one of those moments that I still am thrilled with after all this time. Pismo will always be a California beach town that you can find on the long and winding road called the 101.

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■ Note the keyword on back of frame. Email name of business and keyword to Benicia Main Street at info@beniciamainstreet.org ■ For every picture you find and collect a keyword you get an additional entry into the drawing.

■ Added bonus: If you buy something with the merchant and show Benicia Main Street the receipt, you’ll get double entry into the drawing.

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30 • Benicia Magazine

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All measurements and square footage are approximate.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 31

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